International Day for Eradication of Poverty, Editorial 16 october 2023

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International Day For Eradication of Poverty
Poverty is mother of misfortunes and crimes. Poverty is an ugly phenomenon stabbing the heart of humanity .
we know that poverty has many faces, it changes from place to place. For some poverty is hunger, lack of shelter, being sick or not having enough money, etc. Basically, poverty is a state or condition in which a person lacks financial resources and not able to fulfill basic needs.
Poverty-stricken people and families live without a home, clean water, healthy food, and medical attention. Therefore, International Day for the Eradication of Poverty highlights the problems faced by poverty-stricken people or families and works towards eradicating poverty globally in all its forms.
As a  matter of fact, The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty can be traced back to 17 October, 1987. Over a hundred thousand people gathered on that day at the Trocadero in Paris. In 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was signed at the Trocadero in Paris to honour the victims of extreme poverty, violence, and hunger. It was decided that poverty is a violation of human rights and affirmed the need to come together to ensure that these rights are respected. Since then, people come forward of all backgrounds and gathered on 17 October here to renew their commitment and show their solidarity with the poor.
On 22 December, 1992, a resolution 47/196 was adopted by the General Assembly and declared 17 October as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.
The 2020 Agenda for Sustainable Development was adopted in 2015 by the UN which is also known as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). It expands the scope worldwide to eradicate poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring that all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
We all need to take steps to eradicate the worst monster of poverty throughout the world.

Mental Health Key to Progress, cover story 16 october 2023

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Mental Health key to progress
News Kashmir Analysis
Mental health is foundation of stronger nations. We in the Country have seen several steps taken to improve Mental health, but still many challenges remain. In Valley of Kashmir the Jewel of crown of India we have seen Mental health of people overall not presenting much good picture. We as a country need to recognise the importance of Mental health and make our country mentally strong .
In a series of positive developments, recently,The Union Health Minister launched the logo of Tele-MANAS and inaugurated the new facilities in National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore namely Platinum Jubilee Auditorium and Academic facility, New Administrative Office complex at NIMHANS, Centre for Brain and Mind.

The Union Health Minister stated that “Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres have facilitated the integration of mental health services with primary health services as priority services for mental health, neurological disorders and substance use disorders. District level activities are organized by a dedicated district mental health intervention team stationed in the district hospital. Additionally, OPD, counselling, care and medical support for mental health issues are provided at Community Health Center and Primary Health Center level. They are being provided through 1.6 lakh AB-HWCs situated across the country. Mental health also features under the Prime Minister-Jan Arogya Yojana.”

Dr. Mandaviya further added “To improve coverage and access to mental health care, district level activities have been supported under the National Mental Health Program in 743 districts across all 36 States/UTs.” He highlighted that at the tertiary level, there are a total of 47 government mental health hospitals in the country, including three central mental health institutions at Bengaluru, Ranchi and Tejaspur. Many other central and state government hospitals have psychiatry departments. In addition, psychiatry departments have been established in the newly established All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

Still the expert pulse is India’s mental health crisis is alarming. According to data, approximately 10.6 per cent of India’s population lives with mental health conditions. Shockingly, between 76 per cent and 85 per cent of those in need of mental health care do not receive any services or support.
In the entire country, To ensure the delivery of high-quality mental healthcare, it is crucial to provide comprehensive and specialized training to mental health professionals.
One hopes with continued efforts mental health would vastly improve in India .

Journalist Bilal Bashir Bhat bags Prestigious e4m award in Urdu Journalism

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Journalist Bilal Bashir Bhat bags prestigious e4m award in Urdu Journalism
New Delhi: In a significant development, Kashmir Valley’s young eminent journalist and Mediapreneur Bilal Bashir Bhat bagged the prestigious exchange4media under Urdu Journalism 40 under 40 awards.
Among the 200 entries, 40 Urdu Journalists were declared winners following a rigorous jury process. The list includes editors, reporters, anchors, journalists, digital media professionals, videographers, news producers & video editors in the Urdu domain.
This was the first of its kind award ceremony for Urdu Journalists of the country which saw the presence of former Chief Election Commissioner SY. Quraishi, Dr. Annurag Batra, Chairman Exchange4Media, Dr (Prof) Sheikh Aquil Ahmad, Director NCPUL, Ambreen Khan, Media Marketing Expert, Bushra Khanum, Prof. Farhat Basir Khan, Dr Harish Bhalla Culture Czar & Social Crusader, Dr Khalid Raza Khan, Khurshid Rabbany, Moien Shadab, Prof. (Dr.) Pramod Kumar, HOD, Department of Urdu Journalism, Indian Institute of Mass Communication, New Delhi, Suman Verma, CMO, Hamdard, Zafar Sareshwala, Former Chancellor Maulana Azad National Urdu University and others.
The Award ceremony occurred during the e4m Jashn-e-Sahafat- an event dedicated to honoring the outstanding contributions and innovations in Urdu journalism while fostering conversations on its past, present, and future, on Friday at India International Centre New Delhi.
Pertinently, at the final round of judging, which took place on the day of the virtual Jury meeting on 17 June 2023, the theme of Bilal’s representation stressed introducing a vibrant digitalization, artificial intelligence, and better print design in Urdu Journalism to overcome the outdated style for the sake of developing the interest for Urdu Journalism among millions of potential readers for better messaging and understanding.
Pertinently to fulfill the modern demands of Urdu Journalism, under which for the first time in July 2022, Bilal Bashir Bhat introduced QR Coding in Urdu printing Media, through his newspaper Daily Srinagar Jang. This innovative QR Coding enables readers to watch videos, elaborate stories through print editions. Besides, on a regular basis, the said paper publishs off-the-beat full-page features on different subjects with unique designs to draw the attention of the netizens, particularly the youth.
Daily Srinagar Jang, Associate Editor Rameez Makhdoomi, and Ajaz Ahmad War accompanied Bilal Bashir Bhat at the award function.
Exchange4Media publishes digital news and opinionated content on activities in the Indian marketing, media and advertising industry. The group also publishes magazines viz., Pitch, Impact, Franchise Plus and Realty Plus targeting niche audiences in the industry.
JURY
Dr. Annurag Batra Chairman and Editor-in-chief BW BusinessWorld and Founder, of exchange4media, Dr. Rakhshanda Jalil Writer, Translator, Literary Historian, Shahid Siddiqui Editor Nai Dunia, Muzaffar Ali, Filmmaker, Poet, Zafar Sareshwala, Former Chancellor, MANNU, Yusuf Jameel, Journalist, Columnist & Winner, CPJ International Press Freedom Award, Rajesh Raina Group Editor News18, Raj Babbar Actor and former MP, Dr. Shaikh Aquil Ahmad Director, NCPUL, Ministry of Education, GOI, Mir Alam Ali Zaidi, Journalist, Historian and Writer, Prof. Farhat Basir Khan Author, Strategist, Media Communication and Design Scholar, Suman Varma CMO Hamdard India, and Ambreen Khan Media Marketing Expert.

Never forget your roots: Maqsooda Sarfi Shiotani

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Never forget your roots : Maqsooda Sarfi Shiotni
Maqsooda Sarfi Shiotani a dynamic lady of Kashmiri origin, who has left an indelible mark on Indo-Japanese social and cultural ties.Masooda Sarfi  was Born and brought up in Kashmir India, Maqsooda Sarfi, earned a PhD from the Centre of Central Asian Studies, Kashmir University in 1999.
Maqsooda Sarfi Shiotani has made her tremendous  impact in academic, cultural and social manifestations of life in f Japan,not only this,Her research thesis on the Mongolian history and culture was a positive point to win her a scholarship from the Union Ministry of Human Resources for joining the Mongolian National University for a two-year program. She currently persists in Kanazawa, Japan for nearly 40 years. Besides teaching cross-cultural communication in universities, she runs business in Japan. She marked her potentiality as an integral part of the Japanese social system that helped her rise in the limelight as an icon of the mixed Indo-Japanese cultural stream. Her innate potential blossomed and she made her mark in academic, cultural and social manifestations of life.
 Above all, as an Indian, she has excelled as the unofficial Indian ambassador to Japan, cementing India’s ties with the land of the rising sun. Living in Kanazawa, Japan for nearly 40 years (since 1984), she has left an indelible mark on Indo-Japanese social and cultural ties.
The Ishikawa Indian Association received the “Ishikawa Prefectural Governor’s Award” by the Ishikawa Prefectural Government, Japan, in 2009, for significant contribution to social activities and cultural promotion.
On 10 January 2023  Maqsooda was awarded the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award by President Droupadi Murmu for outstanding achievement in the field of
Education and in recognition of your valuable contribution in promoting the honour and prestige of India and in
fostering the interests of Overseas Indians.
Journalist Mir Sabeen Gulrez through Maqsooda Sarfi Shiotani  interview with News Kashmir.
1.Sabeen : Tell us a bit about your early life ?
Maqsooda : About my early life, well I was born and brought up in srinagar. Had my schooling here.I am a product of kashmir university where I did my higher education.
2.Sabeen : A bit on your research journey ?
Maqsooda : About my research journey, it started from the Center of Central Asian studies department back in 1980s .I was the first batch student of Central Asian studies
 . I joined as an Mphil  student under professor  Maqbool Ahmad who actually established the department. I was sent to Mongolia which was in those times a socialist country.  My research thesis was on the Mongolian history and culture. I was fortunate enough to win a scholarship from the Union Ministry of Human Resources for joining the Mongolian National University for a two-year program.  After my return I joined the Center as a Research Associate . My Mphil thesis was published by the Center. I did my phd under professor Abdul Majeed Matto Sahib . Soon after I landed in Japan as a bride, where I started business and established the Ishikawa Japan-Indian Association. I took a break from research for some time to give lectures on Indian culture throughout Japan, as head of the said Association. I had the privilege of being the Professor, Komatsu University Japan where I have been teaching cross-cultural communication . Also as an owner of an Indian restaurant, ‘Rubina ‘ I am introducing authentic Indian cuisine and saree in feminist fashion in Japan to help enhance academic, cultural and social manifestations of life in the  Indo-Japanese cultural stream.  While doing business I never left my academics self .  This year January 10th I received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA)2023  for my contribution in the educational field.  About research it never ends , the more you dig the more you need to know. it always is a continuing process.
3. Sabeen : How do you see world surfacing post covid ?
Maqsooda : The world is  still struggling hard to come out of the pandemic but fortunately India due to very strong leadership and financial planning  has stood strong and is progressing very fast. Besides we as leaders of G20 are able to bring the world community together. These strong vibes are going to be seen all over the world.
4. Sabeen : Your favorite personalities ?
Maqsooda: My favorite personalities, Swami Vivekanand and A.P .J Abdul Kalam sahib. They have taught me to be spiritual and  work hard. It always pays back.
5. Sabeen : How do you view the rise of Indian youth ?
Maqsooda : It always gives me pleasure to see our youth doing a great job in different fields. Our rising youth is our strength. The world has become very close.
G20 has changed the face of India on the earth. The world cannot do without india and we have a great talented pool of young people in India. we have a skilled work force, technical know hows, our digital technology all these fields are where our young generation could contribute. The slogan  One earth , one family and one future is very meaningful when it comes to collaboration and cooperation in all sectors whether economy business infrastructure or education sector not only between india and japan but also in the whole world.
For me the educational sector always interests me the most. I hope we could collaborate in our MA , phd and post doctorate level as well as faculty exchange with universities in both the countries in jammu kashmir as well.
6. Sabeen : Your message ?
Maqsooda : My message to youth is to have passion in what they want to do , accept and adopt new challenges and never forget their roots, your roots  make you special and unique , you are recognized and appreciated. My own experience speaks so wish all rise and shine.

Physical activity is important for half an hour: Dr Manit Arora

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Physical activity is important for half an
hour daily: Dr Manit Arora
Dr Manit Arora, Senior Consultant, Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Fortis Hospital Mohali, is a renowned name in the field of orthopaedics. Dr Arora is trained in orthopaedics, arthroscopy and sports medicine, and specialises in shoulder, hip, knee and sports-related injuries. In an exclusive interview with The News Kashmir, Dr Arora talks to Rameez Makhdoomi.
How has been your experience in Kashmir?
Kashmir is an awesome place. The people here are lovely, and the climate is superb. The cuisines of Kashmir are also world class. Overall, my experience has been terrific.
You were in Australia. What brought you back to India?
The initial years of my life and most of my education has been in Australia. I have also studied in Japan and the US. But I wanted to serve my country and returned home. It has been quite an enriching experience.
You have treated world-class sportspersons. What is your focus on?
My aim is to get injured sportsmen back on their feet in a limited time frame. I have treated several renowned sportspersons including Indian Hockey Team Vice-Captain and drag flick sensation, Harmanpreet Singh, and forward player Gurjant Singh for sports-related injuries prior to the Tokyo Olympics, 2020. Harmanpreet Singh was able to return to the game within six months.
What is your take on sedentary lifestyle being followed by many?
Sedentary lifestyle can be dangerous to one’s health and can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity. Physical activity is important for at least half an hour daily. One should consume a balanced diet and ensure it has all nutrients. Only then can we ensure a strong body.
Kashmir witnesses harsh winters. How can people here maintain good orthopaedic health?
During extreme cold, people above 50 years of age should try to stay indoors. They should also undertake light exercise sessions. Winter can also flare up pain, so it is important to soak up the sun. Also, it is important to consume a healthy, balanced diet.
Accidental injuries of grim nature are hampering many. What is your take on that?
In case of accident cases, the first line of treatment is quite critical as it ensures swift recovery. We had two patients from Kashmir who required external fixators and we got that done. Coordination among doctors is also important to ensure swift recovery of injuries in accident cases.

International Day of Non-Violence, Editorial 2 october 2023

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International Day of Non Violence
Peace is must for survival of humanity.War has since ages destroyed humanity and its fabric. Violence is a hydra headed monster . Progress,  prosperity and human values can be enriched only in peaceful times. Violence destroys everything.
The International Day of Non-Violence is marked on 2 October, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence. The General Assembly, in a resolution adopted on 5 June 2007, established the commemoration, the International Day as an occasion to disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness. The resolution reaffirms the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence and the desire to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence.
As a matter of fact,
Gandhi was one of the world’s greatest and most influential leaders in the last century and there’s plenty we can learn from him. Here are two of his most beloved quotes. “There are many causes I would die for. There is not a single cause I would kill for.” “An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.”
This day is recognised to educate people about the importance of peaceful coexistence and conflict prevention. The day was founded with a strong aim to create a non-violent and harmonious world. International Day of Peace provides a platform for people and communities to show their contribution towards developing a peaceful world for all.
On this day, Schools can encourage their students to take pledges by holding special assemblies or events on International Peace Day. They can also incorporate peace education into the curriculum and provide opportunities for students to get involved in peacebuilding activities.
We need to spread love and humanity throughout world.

Excessive Salt Woes, cover story 2 October 2023

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Excessive Salt Woes
News Kashmir Analysis
Salt is important for our diet.
It helps you stay hydrated. To stay better hydrated your body needs a delicate balance of sodium and potassium.
Promotes good vascular health.
Balances electrolytes and prevents muscle cramping.
An estimated mean daily salt intake in India stands at 8.0 g (8.9 g/day for men and 7.1 g/day for women) against the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendation of up to 5 g daily.
Additionally the salt intake was significantly higher in men, those in rural areas and overweight and obese respondents, according to a recent survey by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) published in the Nature journal. The study is based on a sample survey carried out as part of National NCD Monitoring Survey (NNMS) in India.
The study was conducted in a nationally representative sample wherein dietary sodium intake was estimated from spot urine samples, a validated method used to assess intake. The population mean was calculated using sampling weights; thus, the study findings could be generalised at a population level and used to plan and implement control measures.
“The information on awareness and behaviour of salt intake was self-reported and could be subjected to information bias. The study did not capture data on the actual dietary sources of salt in food items and condiments for any correlation analysis,” it said while declaring the limitation of the study.
The excess use of salt is harmful.The global average salt intake is estimated to be 10.8 grams per day, more than double the WHO recommendation of less than 5 grams of salt per day (one teaspoon). Eating too much salt makes it the top risk factor for diet and nutrition-related deaths. More evidence is emerging documenting links between high sodium intake and increased risk of other health conditions such as gastric cancer, obesity, osteoporosis and kidney disease.
WHO calls on Member States to implement sodium intake reduction policies without delay and to mitigate the harmful effects of excessive salt consumption. WHO also calls on food manufacturers to set ambitious sodium reduction targets in their products.
In Kashmir Valley too we are among the highest consuming places of salt in world. From Bakery to tea we have salt in everything, which needs to be controlled.
Frequent urination is a classic sign that you are consuming too much salt. Most of the time, you may feel an urgent need to wake up in the middle of the night to urinate.
Consuming too much salt can give you swelling in different parts of the body. This could be a reason why you feel bloated in the morning. The swelling can be felt on the fingers and around the ankles. This swelling is caused by excessive fluids in the body’s tissues and is known as edema. Edema is believed to be a symptom of an underlying health condition or a sign of the fact that you are consuming too much salt. Simple solution for this is to cut down on your sodium intake.
The salt woes should be addressed as soon  as possible to save this planet from havoc.
We in Kashmir should also limit the use of salt to have healthy life.

Historic development: Women Reservation Bill Passed, cover story 25 September 2023

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Historic development: Women Reservation Bill Passed
News Kashmir Analysis
Reservation for women especially in the elected bodies of the country had been long pending dream of women of India to achieve empowerment.
In a landmark previous week,Twenty-seven years after the women’s reservation Bill was first introduced in Parliament, the Lok Sabha on September 20 passed a Bill with near unanimity to amend the Constitution and provide one-third reservation to women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.
Calling it a “historic legislation” that will enable greater participation of women in the political process, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X (formerly, Twitter) to thank the Lok Sabha members.
On the otherhand,  The Rajya Sabha on Thursday (September 21) unanimously passed the Bill proposing to reserve one-third of all seats for women in the Lok Sabha, the state legislatures, and the Delhi legislative assembly. The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-eight Amendment) Bill 2023 was introduced by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal in the upper house , after the Lok Sabha passed it.
News Kashmir talked to cross section of women on this historic feat.
Rekha Mody, Founder Stree Shakti and She Leads ,a prominent voice of the country championing reservation cause  for women since long while talking to the News Kashmir
observed that ” It is a historic development.  Yes Indian women have united. Only 2 votes in opposition, we have created history . New India will usher in peace, prosperity and progress with women’s participation. “
Several other voices also affirmed their views.
Kusum Kaul , Prominent buisness leader and activist  remarked that
Women Reservation Bill Is an excellent initiative by the Government of india to give proper and much needed space to 49% women of india in Politics.
She remarked further :”
According to Article 334 of Indian constitution, this reservation will come to effect after delimitation and that will happen only when census takes place, which is due overtime . So, if Modi jee wants to take the credit of introducing women Reservation Bill , he has to swiftly act on other 2 parameters first . As some opposition parties shared their concern that before passing this bill, the reservation for schedule castes, schedule tribes and other Minorities like Sikhs, Jains and parsis should also be taken into consideration within this reservation.
Besides the political parties don’t have enough women members to field in as candidates during elections, I think it will become imperative to field in wives/ daughters and sisters of the politicians, who are known to the voters. Winning the election is of utmost priority for all parties rather than fielding 33% women Women Reservation Bill Is an excellent initiative by the Government of india to give proper and much needed space to 49% women of india in Politics.  Here is the twist to the tale . Political parties will have to rope in more such women, who can win elections. A humongous exercise  for the parties . In BJP , women candidates will win in the name of Modi jee, in Bengal may  be due to Mamta Didi , but a stalemate for other parties. This is not an easy proposition in  the present scenario for opposition . It needs time for all, but the procedure needs to be started as soon as possible. It will take time both for Government as well as parties to prepare for this Reservation and give women of india their due representation in Indian parliament. The sensitive and thoughtful nature of women may take away the violence, malpractices and goondaism from the Election scenario of india . The
parties will have to rope in more women . The process will take time both for Government as well as parties to prepare for this Reservation and give women of india their due representation in Indian parliament. The sensitive and thoughtful nature of women may take away the violence, malpractices and goondaism from the Election scenario of india . “
It is pertinent to mention that prominent women  face of Politics in Jammu and Kashmir, Senior BJP leader
and Vice Chairperson of J&K Khadi & Village Industries Board – Dr. Hina Shafi Bhat stated :”
It’s great step taken by honorable  Prime Minister Narendra Modi.  A Remarkable step towards women empowerment
Two parliament seat share will be given to J&k
We will see now about 180 women parliament members.
Women are the back bone of society they can nourish country with better loyalty and dedication. It’s historic step towards respect and gender equality.”
Dr KuwaRani Ritu Singh, well known Entrepreneur and educationist of the country while talking to News Kashmir stated:”
The passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill is a monumental step towards gender
equality in our nation. In a society where gender disparities have long been entrenched, this
legislation marks an unprecedented leap forward, ensuring that the voices of women are
heard in the corridors of power.
The Women’s Reservation Bill’s impact goes beyond political representation. It sends a
powerful message to young girls across India that their dreams and aspirations have no
limits. It encourages them to aim for the highest offices and contribute meaningfully to the
nation’s progress.
This landmark legislation aligns with India’s commitment to the United Nations
Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5, which focuses on gender equality. It
positions India as a global leader in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment.
As we celebrate the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill, it is imperative to
honour and applaud Prime Minister Modi ji’s leadership in advancing women’s role
in legislation, policy-making, and governance. Under his leadership, we’ve seen a
renewed commitment to gender equality, exemplified by the passage of the Women’s
Reservation Bill. His vision for an inclusive and equitable India has been a driving
force behind this historic achievement.
Prime Minister Modi’s dedication to empowering women in all spheres of society is
evident in initiatives like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, and Ujjwala Yojana, which aim to
uplift and support women across the nation. His emphasis on women’s participation
and leadership is a significant step towards a more equitable and progressive India.
As we celebrate these accomplishments, we must remember that the work is far from over.
We need comprehensive strategies to ensure the effective implementation of the Women’s
Reservation Bill, and continued global collaboration to address the pressing challenges that
affect us all. Together, we can create a future where gender equality is not just a national
achievement but a worldwide reality.
Initiating the implementation of this historic bill in Jammu and Kashmir during the upcoming
elections, given the region’s recent delimitation process, would be a strategic move. It would
set a precedent, ensuring that no part of our nation remains untouched by the winds of
change.
In this era of global challenges and opportunities, seizing this historic moment is crucial. By championing women’s empowerment, we can reshape our society, strengthen our economy,
and create a more equitable world. Just as India reached the moon, the success of the G20 ,and the Women’s Reservation Bill can be the catalyst for a future where gender equality is not a dream but a living reality.”

Kokernag Martyrs Tribute, 30 September 2023

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Kokernag Martyrs Tribute
In the highest example of sacrifice for nation recently in an encounter at Gadool Kokernag in South Kashmir three top security officers were martyred along with more security personnel.
The encounter with terrorists continued for many days and few hardcore terrorists were also killed.
As a matter of fact, Major Ashish Dhonchak was one of three Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police officers martyred in action during an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district on the intervening night of September 12-13. The encounter broke out in the Kokernag forest area of Anantnag. Major Dhonchak was part of the joint operation team of the Indian Army and Kashmir South Zone police.
The other two officers who lost their lives are Colonel Manpreet Singh and DSP Humayun Bhat. The Army had received specific intelligence about the presence of two terrorists in Koernag village.
Colonel Manpreet Singh had completed 17 years of service in the Indian Army and was known for his unconventional approach and cordial relations with locals. For his service to the force, Singh was awarded with the prestigious Sena Medal for Gallantry in 2021.
34-year-old Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat was the youngest among the three police and army officials who lost their lives in an encounter with terrorists at Kashmir’s Anantnag on Wednesday, September 13.
DSP Bhat, after being shot by terrorists, had made a video call to this wife, Fatima, where he told her to take care of their two-month-old infant since he believed he would not make it out of the action alive, as per a report by India Today.
The nation is indebted to the Kokernag Martyrs who laid their lives for integrity and security of Bharat with the will to crush the terror and violence.
Nation of India salutes Kokernag Martyrs.

Embers to Flames by Leena Thampi, Book review

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Embers to flames by Leena Thampi – A must read poetic book
Review By Rameez Makhdoomi
Embers to flames by Renowned South Indian Author Leena Thampi is a must read. It is a collection of more than 5 dozen poignant poems focusing on women,their dreams and aspirations.
This spins webs between nature, human love, and spiritual connections.
 The writer has used a very soft and yet impressive language to connote her message.
As the Prologue of the book suggests Poems of Leena Thampi in the ” “Embers To  Flames” are grounded in the diverse mysteries of the world.
Leena Thampi through her strokes of pen has brilliantly articulated the sufferings , strengths and weakness of women.
Born in Jammu and Brought up in Delhi and settled in her South Indian roots. The book lexicon gives idea of long journey of experiences travelled by Leena Thampi .
In her Poem Creator she pays a brilliant tribute to the universal creator God.
‘Deja Vu’ her poem in the book Embers to Flames has these awesome lines :
” I never had to Impress you
You never had to impress me”
Eight billion people and you feel like home, There’s something about eternity, don’t roam, Uncanny synchronicities  exist in us .
Her book has quite romantic moments as well when she writes; I am swallowed in an abyss of love ,you keep the naughty girl alive in me.
Leena Thampi has conveyed the idea of humanity in a very subtle manner in the book without sounding of any complaint tone or note .
“Dust to Dust” poem gives beautiful description of otherwise sad episode of death which needs to be applauded .She’s given a new twist to death poems.
The poem titled”Written with Fire ” is one of my personal favorites.
Leena Thampi has at every step shone like a lamp of intellect in her Journey as an author and Embers to Flames is a beautiful example of the same ,and it’s her fourth book.
With an expert sense of language and narrative, this intrepid poet cranks her high beams to rummage ‘humanity’s basement, the murk inside the mammalian heart’ and unearths each dark, radiant truth.
Embers to Flames is definitely a must read . A book in which Leena Thampi has ticked all boxes .There’s no doubt she’s written it with fire.
She Dips into the ink of ashes and writes her own fire into existence.
©️®️_Leena Thampi